The Azimio La Umoja Coalition has appointed Jubilee Party Leader Fred Matiang'i and Siaya Governor James Orengo as co-chairs of its council, as the opposition weighs plans to establish a new political alliance ahead of the 2027 General Election.
The announcement was made by Azimio leader Kalonzo Musyoka on Thursday, November 5, before being confirmed in a statement issued by the coalition's Executive Director, Phillip Kisia.
"Wiper Patriotic Front (WPF) and Ukombozi Alliance Party Leader, H.E. Dr. Stephen Kalonzo Musyoka, today announced Jubilee Party Leader Dr. Fred Matiang'i as Chairman and Siaya County Governor James Orengo as Co-Chair of the Council of the Ukombozi Alliance," Kisia stated.
Kalonzo said the two leaders were suitable to take up the responsibilities, pointing to their extensive experience in public service.
"We have chosen two people who have given this country years of service, and they will chair the Council of the Ukombozi Alliance together. Komboa Kenya is what we are about, and with Matiang'i and Orengo at the table, we are ready for the work ahead," Kalonzo said upon arriving at Kisumu International Airport on Thursday morning.
The leadership positions became vacant following the resignation of former President Uhuru Kenyatta, who stepped down after a court order barred retired presidents from holding party positions six months after leaving office.
In the aftermath of Uhuru's exit, Azimio indicated that it was considering appointing two co-chairs to lead the council. Orengo and Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) leader Rigathi Gachagua were among those mentioned as potential successors.
However, the latest appointments have seen Matiang'i take up one of the positions, leaving Gachagua out of the new council leadership arrangement.
Beyond the appointments, Kalonzo hinted at plans to establish a fresh opposition alliance to challenge President William Ruto's broad-based political formation in the 2027 elections.
The Wiper leader revealed that opposition leaders were working towards forming what he described as the Super Alliance, urging Kenyans to remain calm as discussions continue.
"I want to tell Kenyans, relax. The Super Alliance is in the making...this country has had enough of the predator regime," Kalonzo added.
The developments come amid growing disagreements within the opposition over the selection of a joint presidential candidate for the 2027 General Election.
Although opposition principals had agreed to rally behind a single flagbearer, divisions have emerged over who should receive the ticket and how the coalition should approach the selection process.
Several leaders within the opposition, including Matiang'i and former Attorney General Justin Muturi, have criticised Gachagua, accusing him of contributing to divisions within the camp through what they describe as bullying tactics.
Gachagua, however, has maintained that every opposition principal must demonstrate their political strength by consolidating their respective support bases and attracting voters.
He has argued that no leader should expect to automatically secure the opposition's presidential ticket without first proving their political influence.
